Starting school is one of the most significant transitions in a child's life. With the right preparation, it can be an exciting and positive experience. Here's a practical guide to help your family navigate the transition from Kinder to Prep.
6 months before school starts
- Attend school orientation sessions and open days
- Talk positively about school — share your own happy memories
- Read books about starting school together
- Begin practising the school routine (earlier wake-up, packed lunch)
- Ensure your child can manage basic self-care independently
Practical skills to practise
- Opening and closing their own lunchbox and drink bottle
- Putting on and taking off shoes (including doing up velcro or laces)
- Managing their own toileting independently
- Recognising their name in print
- Carrying and managing their own school bag
Our Kinder educators work closely with families and receiving schools during the transition period. We provide transition statements for every child, and we're happy to liaise directly with your child's new school if that would be helpful.
What to expect in Term 1
Even children who are excited about school often experience a dip in mood or behaviour in the first few weeks. This is completely normal — school is exhausting. Expect your child to be tired, emotional, and possibly clingy in the afternoons. Protect their sleep, keep afternoons low-key, and trust that they're adjusting.